Distal biceps injury
Biceps tendinitis / biceps tendinosis / biceps rupture

A distal biceps injury is characterised by pain in the crook of the elbow or above, along the front of the upper arm. It is an injury affecting the lower part of the biceps muscle and tendon.

arm biceps brachii caput longum brevis anatomy anterior

The distal biceps injury differs from the proximal biceps injury, located higher up the arm.

Description of the condition

There are three forms of distal biceps injury: biceps tendinitis, biceps tendinosis and biceps rupture.

In the case of biceps tendinitis, the biceps tendon is inflamed. This is often confused with biceps tendinosis, which does not involve inflammation but is due to degeneration of the tendon (decreased quality).

In severe cases, a rupture of the biceps tendon can occur. The biceps tendon separates from the attachment to the bone.

Cause and origin

The symptoms occur as a result of overuse. For example, forceful or repeated flexing of the elbow, or rotating the wrist with the palm of the hand facing upwards (as is the case when using a screw driver).

Signs & symptoms

The symptoms are characterised by pain in the crook of the elbow when flexing the elbow (bending) and rotating the hand palm upwards (supination) against resistance.

A rupture occurs when exerting force. A clear snapping sound or sensations is observed, followed by the elbow suddenly being unable to flex forcefully.



In many cases, relative rest and physiotherapy are enough to alleviate the symptoms. Surgical reattachment is required if a biceps tendon rupture occurs.



arm biceps tendon distal


arm biceps brachii caput longum brevis anatomy anterior
arm biceps tendon distal
